510-594 General Practice and Community Medicine

Subject Description

On completion of this subject, students should understand the principles of general practice and its role in the health care system; have developed an appreciation of the range of physical, social and psychological problems seen in general practice; the concept of total patient care and working as a member of a team of health professionals; have acquired skills in the delivery of primary health care; understand the role of law, forensic medicine and ethical considerations in the practice of medicine. Major topics covered include problems seen in general practice; clinical decision making, diagnostic and management skills, patient centred approach to consulting and communication, the interaction of physical, social and psychological factors in the health of patients and families; opportunities and strategies for preventive care, palliative care, family care, continuing care, women and men's health care by general practitioners; sports medicine, communicable and sexually transmitted diseases, drug and alcohol, travel and occupational medicine, health care needs of disadvantaged groups; medico-legal aspects of injuries; the police and the coroner's court; psychiatry and the law; sudden unexpected death; asphyxia; toxicology; physical and sexual abuse; human tissue transplantation; concepts of life and death; consent; confidentiality; professional conduct; medical fallibility.

Assessment

Continuous assessment and feedback from general practice teachers and Departmental tutors. One 50-minute clinical examination in the final week of the course (25%). One 3-hour written examination (60%) in the final week of the course. A written assignment in general practice (15%). Students must pass both the written and the clinical examination to pass the subject.

Prescribed Texts

• Breen K J, Cordner S M, Law and Ethics in Medicine for Doctors in Victoria. 1994.
• Murtagh, General Practice. McGraw Hill, 1994.